Pausing Data Centers

Taking a Proactive Approach to Data Centers in Clackamas County

 

I believe local government is at its best when we address emerging issues before they become problems. That’s why I supported—and helped advance—a proactive approach to large-scale data centers in Clackamas County.

 

As The Oregonian/OregonLive recently reported, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously directed staff to begin the process of establishing a moratorium on new data center applications.

 

We currently have an opportunity that many other communities did not: time to get this right before major applications arrive.

 

Data centers can bring economic investment, but they can also place significant demands on electricity, water, transportation and other infrastructure. I want Clackamas County to understand those impacts, hear from our communities and make sure appropriate safeguards are in place before we are confronted with a major proposal.

 

Rather than waiting and reacting later, I believe we should do the homework now.

 

I appreciate the collaboration with my fellow commissioners to move this conversation forward. As this industry expands across Oregon, I will continue working to make sure Clackamas County protects our residents, infrastructure and taxpayers while remaining thoughtful about future economic development.